SHOCK RESIGNATION ROCKS QUEENSLAND PARLIAMENT: Katter’s Australian Party MP Nick Dametto QUITS to Chase Mayoral Dream in Townsville By-Election
- Dametto resigns from state parliament after eight years as member for Hinchinbrook, sparking a by-election in the north Queensland seat
- The Katter’s Australian Party MP is chasing his mayoral dreams in Townsville, with the by-election set for November 15
- In a dramatic farewell speech, Dametto thanked himself for “turning up whenever I could” and urged others to be brave and float policies that make a difference
In a stunning move, Katter’s Australian Party MP Nick Dametto has formally resigned from Queensland parliament, ending his eight-year tenure as member for Hinchinbrook. The surprise resignation has sparked a by-election in the north Queensland seat, with Dametto setting his sights on becoming the next mayor of Townsville.
During his emotional farewell speech, Dametto reflected on his time in office, highlighting his work on commercial and recreational fishing, disability access, and youth crime. He also took a moment to thank himself for his dedication, saying, “I want to thank me for turning up whenever I could … [and] me for backing me.” The remark sparked a mix of laughter and applause from his colleagues.
In a heartfelt plea, Dametto urged his fellow politicians to be brave and stand up for what they believe in. “I want people in this House to be brave. Stand up and float policies you think and know will make a difference,” he said. The outgoing MP also expressed his desire to inspire young people, saying, “I want to inspire that next kid at school who thinks he is doing bad at school, he can become something.”
The news has sent shockwaves through the political sphere, with Premier David Crisafulli acknowledging that by-elections are traditionally tough for incumbent governments. However, he vowed that the LNP would “show up and give people the chance the vote.” Opposition leader Steven Miles has also confirmed that Labor plans to run a candidate in the seat, which Dametto held with a margin of 13.2 per cent following the 2024 state election.
The Townsville City Council mayoral by-election is scheduled for November 15, with voting to be conducted by full postal ballot. As Dametto embarks on his new chapter, he remains confident that his passion and dedication will serve him well in his bid to become the next mayor of Townsville.